Tuscany 2005 -- Part 6: Montecatini Terme

Montecatini Terme was our destination on Saturday July 2. It's another picturesque little mountain town of Tuscany. Famous for the hot springs, it's been a resort for the weary forever (probably). It also boasts a "Funicolare" -- a cross between a rail line and gondola. You park at the base of the hill and climb aboard the one-car, cable-driven tram as is carries you up the hillside (the final, steepest bit has a 38.6% gradient). As there is only one track, and they need to get the cars (and people, of course) both up and down, there is one little passing circle in the middle of the trip -- which has to be carefully timed. Also noteworthy: the car is built in stairstep fashion, so the seats and floor are level on the steep grade.
Funicolare in Montecatini Terme Tuscany 2005. Funicolare in Montecatini Terme Tuscany 2005.
Funicolare in Montecatini Terme Tuscany 2005. Funicolare in Montecatini Terme Tuscany 2005.
Another nice place for a snack and drink -- Robert imitating his grandfather (or vice-versa). And a nice place for a walk and taking in the views.
Montecatini Terme Tuscany 2005. Montecatini Terme Tuscany 2005 (photo by SZap).
Montecatini Terme Tuscany 2005 (photo by SZap). Montecatini Terme Tuscany 2005 (photo by SZap).
Montecatini Terme Tuscany 2005. Montecatini Terme Tuscany 2005.
Montecatini Terme Tuscany 2005. Montecatini Terme Tuscany 2005.
Robert's walking was so impressive this group video-taped him pushing his stroller down the street.
Montecatini Terme Tuscany 2005. Montecatini Terme Tuscany 2005.
Montecatini Terme Tuscany 2005. Montecatini Terme Tuscany 2005.
The next day, we headed to San Gimignano, the city of towers.